Little Earthquakes - Tori Amos

Atlantic Records
1991

For those who have never heard of Tori Amos, I urge you to find this album and settle in for one of the most emotional musical experiences of your life. In my opinion, there has never been a record quite like it. Be prepared however, do not take this on lightly.

Each song takes the listener on a moving, and often confronting, journey. It is widely agreed amongst critics that there has very rarely been music written which ploughs the depths of life and emotions like those songs found on this album. Tori embraced the notion that the most successful artists are inspired by what lays within, and the results are awesome.

Influenced by the events of her life, each track has emotion and substance poured into it. It is speculated that Tori gave everything to this album, leaving no aspect of herself unexplored, because she was worried she would not get another chance after her first album bombed horribly, and she wanted something memorable left for posterity.

The power contained within this music, created by one woman with little more than her voice and a piano, is absolutely staggering. There are no “filler” songs and listening to the whole album in one sitting will take you on a voyage which will have you trembling at times, crying at others, but always gripped in its masterful artistry.

“Crucify” sets the scene for what is to come. Powerful and moving, it asks disturbing questions that listeners, especially women, will be able to relate to without providing answers. This in itself adds to the ability to become involved with the song, and creates the appeal of commonly shared feeling. Superbly orchestrated and written, “Crucify” sets a high standard which is maintained throughout.

The lyrical skill is amazing:

“I’ve been looking for a saviour on these dirty streets,
Looking for a saviour beneath these dirty sheets,
I’ve been raising up my hands,
Drive another nail in,
I’ve got enough guilt to start a religion”

“Silent All These Years” is a sweeping reflection on the pain and decisions that must be faced within relationships. The flow between the verses, which feature just piano and vocals, into the orchestrated chorus is incredibly moving and emotion filled. Musically it is superb, and as with the rest of the album, the lyrical quality adds such dimension.

The first time I heard “Winter” I broke down into tears. It is obviously just my opinion, but I cannot remember a more engulfing song. Inspired by the evolving relationship with her father, the poetry and power of Tori’s words are given a sharp edge by one of most beautiful piano scores ever written. I challenge any woman to consider her own relationship with her father and listen to this song without bursting into tears. Great music is meant to move you, and I have never been moved by a song more than this one.

“Me And A Gun” is arguably the most famous song to come off of this album. No musical accompaniment at all; nothing other than a heart wrenching vocalising of Tori’s real-life experience of rape. There are no distractions to take away from her recounting the moment, and what was going through her mind in order to simply survive. You will be confronted in ways that may make you uncomfortable; please do not take this song lightly. Although not graphic in description, a picture is clearly painted which sparks outrage, mourning and courage all at once. Everyone should listen to this song at least once, because it will make you hug your mother, daughter, sister or girlfriends just a little bit closer.

Overall, there has never been an album like “Little Earthquakes”. It is a powerful example of art and music at its finest. I am grateful to have the opportunity through the pages of The Erotic Woman Reviews to be able to spread the word about what I consider to be one of the greatest albums of all time.

This is not a record you buy to listen to and bop along with however. Give yourself a night where it is cold outside, and you are huddled alone in front of the heater or fire in your most comfortable chair. With a glass of red wine, close your eyes and just lose yourself in the music and lyrics. See how it makes you consider your own life events and situations. It will be an experience you may never have gone through before, and could indeed be a bit of a life changer. High praise I know, but I mean every word.

OVERALL RATING: A+